Free Article: Tendonitis in the Knee

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Patellar Tendonitis: Tendonitis in the Knee
By M. A. Fulmar

Tendonitis in the knee, which is known in the medical world as patellar tendonitis, is a condition caused by inflammation of the tendon between the shin and kneecap. This is a very important tendon, and when it is inflamed, you will have difficulty using your leg, particularly movements such as kicking, jumping, or riding a bike. Tendonitis in the knee is an injury caused by overuse. When too much stress is placed on the patellar tendon, the tendon receives tiny tears. When the body attempts to repair these tears, and then more occur before the tendon has a chance to heal, the inflammation becomes painful and starts to limit the range of motion. This is tendonitis in the knee, and it eventually becomes a consistent pain. Tendonitis in the knee often occurs when the training or work out regimen of an athlete is suddenly increased. This is why it is best to gradually increase the level and intensity of workouts, as the gradual increase gives the body a chance to grow accustomed to the new level of work.

Symptoms of Knee Tendonitis

While anyone, athlete or non athlete, can develop tendonitis in the knee, athletes tend to notice it more often, because they are more in tune to their bodies. They will notice a consistent pain in the area between the shins and kneecap. When they are active, the pain is sharp and stabbing. When they are at rest, it is a dull pain, but it is persistent. Without treatment, the pain and inflammation continues to get worse, and eventually noticeable swelling will be seen.

Do I Need A Doctor?

If you suspect that you might be suffering from tendonitis in the knee, it is best to seek medical attention. That being said, if the pain is limited and not severe, you might be able to treat the problem yourself by resting and icing the effected knee. If, however, the pain becomes so intense that you cannot function and go about your day as you normally would, it is time to call the doctor.

Treatment for Knee Tendonitis

It is not easy to treat tendonitis in the knee. Treatment usually starts with rest and anti inflammatory drugs. Once the inflammation is somewhat controlled, your doctor will probably prescribe a physical therapy regimen to attempt to get your leg aligned correctly, and strengthen the week tendon. Surgery is considered a last resort as treatment for tendonitis in the knee.

Author Details:
M. A. Fulmar writes about Tendonitis and other health matters for various web sites including, The A to Z of and Information Junkie.

Source: Free Health Article Directory

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